Stress analysis software

[karlbamforth]

I am looking to build an experimental plane from plans, but in the UK the authorities insist on some form of stress analysis. My question is "Is there any reasonably priced (probably only use it once) computer software available to calculate wing spar loads and strength. Similarly the loads and strength required for wing mountings?"

 

[joekm]

The analysis you seek may have already been done by people who sold you the plans. It might be worth trying them first.

--
Joseph K. Mooney
Director, Airframe Structures - FAA DER
Delta Engineering Corporation

 

[karlbamforth]

Thanks, but I already tried that. Its a French design and the reply I got was a bit obscure, maybe he didn't fully understand what I was asking. It is the Junqua Ibis an all woood canard design with good performance.
I may be wrong here but they seem to find a previously designed spar that has succesfully carried the same or greater load and used that, working on the theory that it worked before it will work again. Not very efficient but reduces design time and costs greatly.

 

[Sparweb]

For a once-in-a-lifetime analysis of a spar/mounting structure, I doubt a computer code would do you any good. This is a homebuilt, for pete's sake. Get a copy of Bruhn, instead. If you're already a mechanical/structural/aero engineer, you already know the first few chapters. Jump to the middle of the book and be done with it.
Since this is a wooden spar, there are some things that Bruhn doesn't cover, but are amply covered by ANC-18. That's available if you know where to look (I found it on the internet).
I'm surprised the UK authorities are insisting on such a step. Then again, they insist on many surprising things...


Steven Fahey, CET
"Simplicate, and add more lightness" - Bill Stout